Sizing Up Small Caps

This Discounter's Stock Is a Steal

The stormy spring weather is the latest setback for retailer Big Lots. But the stock is very cheap and company's prospects are improving.

David Englander

June 15, 2013

A difficult 2012 has become a difficult 2013 for Big Lots, the nation's largest closeout retailer.

Last month, the company (ticker: BIG) reported soft same-store sales in the first quarter and lowered earnings guidance for the year, saying that an unusually cold spring has hurt sales of seasonal goods like lawn, garden, and pool items. The news...